The author first introduces the term Singspiel, which its designation is

shared by two distinct regional cultures of German-language opera. The

former, northern Germany, had a German-oriented ideology but also
adapted plays from other languages. This article will focus on the second
regional culture, Vienna, which was connected to Mozart. It created
German-language repertoires by translating non-German works.

Several origins of the Viennese Singspiel and their respective influences

are mentioned. The first was Jesuit Drama, which had influences on the
comic interludes of Singspiel. The second antecedent was improvised
comedy. The recurring character, Hanswurst, was played by multiple
generations of actors. The comedy was embodied with silliness and is
often parodic in nature. Hanswurst comedies had both instrumental and
sung genres.

In addition, foreign languages and cultures had great influences on

Vienna. English, French plays and Italian operas were well celebrated.
However, the North German Singspiel was not universally admired there.

With the above influences, the article moves on to how Joseph II promoted
Singspiel in through national theatres. He formed a company of newly
hired cast. Unfortunately, it did not last long due to the lack of
appropriate repertory and the aristocrats desire for Italian opera.
Although Joseph II attempted to revive Singspiel by installing a new
company in another court theatre, it failed to stimulate competition with
Buffa companies. Eventually, Singspiel was only found in suburban
theatres.

Joseph II later issued the Freedom of Spectacle, which allowed Singspiel to

be performed without a court license from artists. As a result, new
suburban theatres were set up and targeted audiences who could not
afford the tickets at national theaters. Mozarts Magic Flute was performed
there. Moreover, suburban theatres were patronized by Joseph II and other
aristocrats. Despite ending up in the Viennese suburbs, Singspiel was a
deeply embedded and essential feature of Viennese musical life.